Being the starting pitcher in the MLB All-Star Game is considered a badge of honor, signifying a player's excellence on the mound. For players like Don Drysdale, Lefty Gomez, and Robin Roberts, starting five All-Star Games solidified their status as legends of the game. Not far behind, Jim Palmer, Max Scherzer, and Randy Johnson each had the honor of starting four times.
As we look forward to the 2024 MLB All-Star Game, hosted by the defending champions, the Texas Rangers, the excitement only continues to build. Globe Life Field will serve as the battleground where today's pitching elite will showcase their skills.
American League Pitching Lineup
The American League side boasts an impressive roster of starting pitchers, including Tyler Anderson, Corbin Burnes, Garrett Crochet, Logan Gilbert, Tanner Houck, Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Tarik Skubal. Logan Gilbert, who is scheduled to start next Sunday, adds a layer of anticipation for fans eager to see his talents on display.
Seth Lugo, in particular, merits special attention. Leading the league in wins, ERA, and WAR, Lugo has pitched the most innings this season. Interestingly, Lugo spent his last five years with the Mets primarily as a reliever before transitioning to full-time starting duties with the Padres last season. The Royals, recognizing his immense potential, signed him to a two-year deal last offseason. "He’s pitched like an ace all year, posting a career year at age 34. That's all kinds of fun," remarked one analyst.
On the strikeout leaderboard, names like Crochet, Ragans, and Skubal dominate, showing just how potent the American League's pitching staff can be. Corbin Burnes, a former Cy Young winner, adds to the formidable reputation of this All-Star roster.
National League Standouts
The National League presents an equally stellar lineup of starting pitchers, including Tyler Glasnow, Shota Imanaga, Reynaldo López, Chris Sale, Paul Skenes, Ranger Suárez, Logan Webb, and Zack Wheeler. Logan Webb commands attention, leading in innings pitched and ranking seventh in ERA. Sánchez, on the other hand, holds the distinction of being the ERA leader in the National League.
Chris Sale continues to impress, standing second in ERA, leading in wins and WHIP, and ranking third in strikeouts. Perhaps the most striking number belongs to Tyler Glasnow, who tops the strikeout charts.
The Paul Skenes Phenomenon
Among this dazzling array of talent, Paul Skenes stands out for his unique journey. He is the first pitcher ever taken No. 1 overall to make the All-Star team the following season. The Pirates exercised caution, starting Skenes in Triple-A, but his performance has been nothing short of spectacular. In just 10 starts, Skenes boasts a 5-0 record with a 2.12 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and 78 strikeouts against 12 walks over 59 1/3 innings. Though not qualified for the ERA title due to workload, Skenes' achievements have not gone unnoticed.
Fans and analysts alike are thrilled at the prospect of Skenes facing hitters like Jose Altuve, Juan Soto, and Aaron Judge. "Think about Skenes facing Altuve, Soto, and Judge and tell me you'd rather someone else start. C'mon. This is dream-type stuff," one commentator enthused. Even if Skenes only pitches one inning, the possibility of him facing top-tier hitters like Altuve, Soto, and Judge—with Yordan Alvarez potentially looming should anyone reach base—adds a layer of excitement and drama to the upcoming event.
As we inch closer to the 2024 MLB All-Star Game, the anticipation around these elite pitchers reaches a fever pitch. Both the American and National League have put forward rosters that promise a display of top-tier talent, strategic gameplay, and unforgettable moments. Globe Life Field is set to host a game for the ages, and baseball fans around the world will be watching in eager anticipation.